Kogi: Troops Strike Terrorists, Foil Planned Kidnap Operation, Recover Arms
Troops of the 12 Brigade under the 2 Division Nigerian Army have foiled a planned kidnap operation and neutralised a suspected terrorist during a successful ambush operation in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.
The Nigerian Army said the operation, conducted on Friday, May 30, 2026, followed credible intelligence indicating plans by terrorists to launch kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community in the state
The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday.
According to the him, troops swiftly deployed to a suspected terrorist crossing point along the Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where an ambush was strategically laid to deny the criminal elements freedom of movement and frustrate their planned operation.
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During the operation, troops reportedly made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a firefight, leading to the neutralisation of one of the suspects, while other members of the criminal gang escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
The Army disclosed that subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier, and mobile phones believed to belong to the fleeing terrorists.
Military authorities noted that the recovered items further confirmed the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the area.
The Army described the operation as part of ongoing offensive efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist and criminal networks threatening the safety of law-abiding citizens in Kogi State and adjoining communities.
It added that troops have continued exploitation of the general area to track down and apprehend fleeing members of the criminal gang.
The Commander of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi, commended the troops for their vigilance, combat efficiency, and commitment to duty.
He reaffirmed the Brigade’s determination to sustain pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements operating within its area of responsibility while urging residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence.
